Fogel Neale Partners has hired Michael Markiewicz as a partner to serve the financial planning needs of couples in same-sex marriages under its advisory arm, Fogel Neale Wealth Management.

The announcement comes shortly after New York became the sixth US state to legalize gay marriage in June 2011. Prior to Fogel Neale, Markiewicz held key positions at Deloitte & Touche and CBIZ MHM Family Office Services. 

"Emotionally, this is a great leap forward, but in reality, there are still many federal benefits that aren't available to same-sex couples - it's extremely important that they work with a professional to ensure that they're properly taking advantage of all of the benefits provided by New York State," said Markiewicz in a statement. 

Financial matters that Markiewicz will be focusing on include the distinction between state and federal benefits, transfer of property, joint tax returns, estate planning, and budgeting for wedding costs.